‘CSI’ Develops Catherine’s Exit, Plans ‘Torment’ For Langston

CSI: Crime Scene Investigation writer Christopher Barbour offers details about what might be coming up for Catherine Willows (Marg Helgenberger) and Dr Ray Langston (Laurence Fishburne) as season eleven draws to a close. (Spoilers after the jump!)

The end of the season will feature “a big showdown between Nate Haskell (Bill Irwin) and Ray Langston and the team,” Barbour told Shane Saunders. He added, “That will hopefully be exciting and surprising for everyone and everyone will be surprised at the outcome of that.” The writer would not confirm or deny whether Langston’s ex-wife Gloria (Tracee Ellis Ross, “All That Cremains”) would be involved, but he did say, “We’re exploring the possibility of what would Haskell do to antagonize Langston.”

“He is not done tormenting Langston yet,” Barbour explained. “That is what we’re working on as I speak, without giving anything away. Bill Irwin is an actor we’re really excited to have as a part of the show and he will be returning. Hopefully, it will be a satisfying run as we approach the end of the season.” He added, “I think it’s just about Haskell upsetting him and with the potential for Langston to become very dangerous.”

As CSI Files previously reported, Helgenberger is planning to leave the crime drama, and she may return for a limited number of episodes next season. “We are segueing her off and I think we’re still developing how that might happen,” Barbour revealed. “And also the possibility that we leave the door open should she decide to stay.” He added, “I have to say just speaking as a fan she is always going to be an important part of the show. And like [Gil] Grissom (William Petersen), she’ll still be referenced as it seems like she’s going off to bigger and better things.”

To read the full interview, visit Shane Saunders’ website. Barbour also answered questions about Grissom’s cameo appearance earlier this season, the return of Lady Heather (Melinda Clarke) and Sofia Curtis (Louise Lombard), and more!